Tourism Western Australia rolled out the red carpet for a select group of Indian travel trade and media representatives, hosting a grand reception dinner at Perth’s iconic and award-winning Optus Stadium. The special evening was part of the ongoing ‘Namaste WA’ mega famil, which brought together 15 leading tour operators and six trade media professionals from India for an immersive experience across the state.
Opening the evening, Arjun Mukundd, Country Manager – India, Tourism Western Australia, said, “My team and I have the absolute honour and pleasure of working with our valued partners from media and trade to showcase the magic of Western Australia to Indian travellers. You are our ambassadors, our storytellers, our bridge and our biggest champions in the Indian market. Tonight is really about celebrating all of you.”
Taking the stage, Anneke Brown, Managing Director, Tourism Western Australia, emphasised the growing significance of the Indian market and the importance of building lasting partnerships.
She said, “India is a priority market for us, an incredibly important one. We hope you have felt the love and welcome of Western Australian people during your visit.”
She acknowledged the role of local stakeholders in creating memorable experiences for visitors and highlighted the state’s extraordinary diversity, from pristine white beaches and UNESCO-listed Ningaloo Reef to vibrant food and wine regions.
“We are truly a land of extraordinary contrasts and natural wonders. With world-class events, diverse culinary delights, and unique landscapes, Western Australia is positioned as a dream destination for Indian travellers,” Brown added.
She also noted India’s growing inbound numbers: 35,000 visitors who spent $71 million in the year ending March 2025, underscoring WA’s continued investment in marketing, aviation connectivity, and collaborative campaigns.
The evening’s host venue, Optus Stadium, provided a fitting backdrop for the celebration. Nadia Owen, Head of Meetings & Special Events (MASE), extended a spirited welcome.
She said, “It is an absolute privilege to host you tonight at a venue that proudly represents the spirit of our community. Western Australia’s relationship with India is both deep-rooted and forward-looking. Our shared passion for cricket, cultural exchange, and hospitality connects us deeply.”
Highlighting Virat Kohli’s remark that Optus Stadium offered “the best catering of any stadium in the world,” Owen underlined how the venue has become synonymous with world-class sport, hospitality, and events. She also showcased its versatility, from adrenaline-pumping rooftop tours to tailored MICE events, positioning it as a landmark destination for leisure and business tourism alike.
In a conversation with Travel Trade Journal, Tom Upson, Director – International Markets and Aviation, Tourism Western Australia, described the famil as the first large-scale engagement of its kind for India.
“This is the first mega famil we have done for India with a mix of trade and media, allowing us to both showcase key partners and raise destination awareness,” he said.
Upson outlined Perth’s role as a natural gateway for Indian travellers, with the nearby Margaret River region resonating strongly due to its food, wine, and family-friendly appeal.
“Perth offers freshness, beaches close by, and a gateway to adventure, from Pink Lake to Kalbarri. At any time of year, there’s something in season in WA. We want Indian travellers to feel confident in recommending and experiencing these diverse offerings,” he added.
One of the highlights of the evening, and a truly unforgettable moment for the Indian delegation, was the display of their company logos across the iconic Optus Stadium screens. Against the backdrop of Perth’s sporting cathedral, the illuminated logos symbolised the importance of the Indian market and the value Tourism Western Australia places on its trade and media partners. The gesture drew applause and excitement, making it one of the most memorable moments of the Namaste WA famil.
